WHITTIER FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Sideswept Strikes: Eight Hours Aboard F/V CRAZY RAY Chasing Silver Salmon and Rockfish out of Whittier
An 8-hour boat charter from Whittier that targets aggressive silver salmon and several rockfish species — this guide explains what to expect, the techniques used, and who the trip suits.
Sideswept Strikes: Eight Hours Aboard F/V CRAZY RAY Chasing Silver Salmon and Rockfish out of Whittier.
From the shelter of the gulf near Whittier, an eight-hour outing aboard the F/V CRAZY RAY puts anglers on the pulse of Alaska’s nearshore runs: silver salmon that arrive in season with ferocious strikes and a patchwork of rockfish—non-pelagic and sometimes pelagic black rockfish—that reward precise presentations. Fish are often taken right beside the boat, and the day typically alternates between mooching and trolling as the school and sea conditions dictate.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Silver Salmon: Aggressive, Near the Boat
When in season, silver salmon in this area are notably aggressive; anglers frequently see and feel the strike as fish take the bait within sight of the boat, a defining thrill of the trip.
Mooching and Trolling — Two Methods, Same Excitement
The charter typically targets salmon using mooching techniques, while trolling is used at times; both approaches are employed to put anglers on active fish throughout the day.
Rockfish Variety: Non‑Pelagic and Pelagic Targets
Depending on where the salmon work is done, the trip will also target various non‑pelagic rockfish species or, occasionally, pelagic black rockfish—adding a bottom‑fishing dimension to a day built around silver salmon.
What the day feels like
How the Day Feels
The day unfolds as an active, boat‑based fishing operation: an eight‑hour window in which anglers switch between mooching presentations and trolling runs, watching for silver salmon to strike within view or switching focus to rockfish in productive grounds. The pace is defined by the bite—short, intense periods of action when fish come aboard, and steady pursuit between strikes.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an eight‑hour charter that targets silver salmon in season and rockfish; the headline schedule notes targeted dates for 2024 (July 9–August 28).
Specific gear lists are not detailed in the provided trip notes; the outing description emphasizes fishing by mooching or trolling—confirm with the operator for tackle, licenses, and recommended personal items.
The charter runs for 8 hours.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the charter?
The outing is eight hours in duration.
What species will we target?
The charter targets silver salmon and various rockfish—typically non‑pelagic rockfish, and occasionally pelagic black rockfish.
What fishing methods are used?
The trip typically uses mooching techniques for silver salmon and will sometimes troll; both methods are part of the outing.
Is there an age minimum?
Yes—participants must be at least 7 years old.
When does the season run for this targeted trip in 2024?
Headline notes indicate targeting runs from July 9 through August 28, 2024.